Pacific Northwest

September, 2003
Regional Report

Web Finds

Interested in Iris?
You'll find basic but thorough information about this diverse genus at the American Iris Society's Web site, where newcomers and experts alike are welcome to browse. Topics such as hybridization, classification, growing tips, and transplanting are covered in detail. You'll also find beautiful photos of popular varieties, plus links to the AIS bulletin and an index of related articles.

Favorite or New Plant

Silver Lace Vine
So many of my landscape plants are turning red, orange, and yellow now, but this vine is still producing tons of fragrant white flowers. I planted my silver lace vine (Polygonum aubertii) three years ago. The first year it ambled up the trellis, but this year it has really taken off! Even this late in the season it's loaded with flowers. Silver lace vines grow best in well-drained soil and full sun, though mine doesn't seem to mind late afternoon shade. These plants are trouble-free and grow rampantly, so be ready to prune them back in spring. Mine is so happy that I think next year I'll replace their trellis with a sturdier arbor!